Joseph Michael Yranski

Joe was a customer during my Films, Inc days who quickly evolved into a friend. His knowledge and enthusiasm for the silent era was infectious. I enjoyed visits to his apartment where he would regale me with stories about movie stars and NYC history. I will always remember his generosity and kindness.

Joe was an incredibly generous and kind person. He was instrumental in helping with my research on the 1910 silent film version of The Wizard of Oz. His knowledge was extensive, and I so enjoyed hearing him talk about his life and work. RIP.

Joe and I knew each other through Colleen Moore and fthe NY Public Library. He helped me a great deal over the decades on my exhibitions at the library and magazine articles. I think of him evety day and his generosity.

I worked with him at New York Public Library. I was so happy when he received a position in the Film Department. He was such a huge film fan. He also loved the Wizard of Oz and Louise Brooks. I miss those discussions.

I was so lucky to meet Joe when I was working on the MacArthur Foundation Library Video Project in 1987 and he was the Film Historian at Donnell Media Center. Over the past years, we talked about movies, of course, but our conversations touched on much of our world and our lives. Joe was a wonderful, fun, and kind friend whom I will greatly miss. His many memories will be a blessing for us all.

Joe - the most selfless friend one could ever be so lucky to have had. Always put others ahead of himself, and always someone you could count on to be there, so emotionally supportive and caring, especially in the most dark and challenging times. I will miss you deeply. Andy

Joe was a pivotal figure in my life and I was so grateful to have known him. He invited me to play for a silent film in NYC which led to a recording of that film. He also invited me to perform at a wonderful silent film festival in Syracuse, NY. A warm, sensitive and generous soul, he left the world in a better place and I will miss him greatly.